SpaceX Flight Attendant Sues, Claims Age and Cancer Discrimination

A veteran flight attendant employed by SpaceX is suing the aerospace company, alleging that she was replaced by younger employees and ultimately terminated following a cancer diagnosis. The lawsuit claims discriminatory practices that favored less experienced, younger women over the plaintiff, Lydia Fillip, 60.

Fillip, who was hired in 2023 as a lead cabin attendant with a daily rate of $800, claims her hours were reduced and that younger attendants were brought in to replace her on Gulfstream flights carrying SpaceX executives. According to the suit, Chief Pilot Conner Grey began altering the schedule in February 2025, leading to increased work for Delainy Reyes, described as being in her early 20s, and Stacy Brown, in her 30s. The complaint alleges that Grey was in a sexual relationship with Brown, which became apparent to the team.

Despite Fillip's extensive experience in private aviation, including a notable appearance on the witness list for the Johnny Depp and Amber Heard divorce case, the suit claims Reyes and Brown were assigned the preferred flights. The lawsuit also points to the July 2024 hiring of Kelly Doak, 22, who allegedly had minimal relevant experience, having previously worked as a door-to-door salesperson and exercise instructor. Fillip's suit states that Doak was among several young, conventionally attractive attendants hired with little aviation background.

The complaint details a safety incident involving Doak, who allegedly left a service cart unattended without its brakes engaged, posing a hazard to passengers and crew. Fillip, diagnosed with stage-four melanoma in December 2024, continued working through immunotherapy treatment until April 2025. She informed Grey at that time that she needed to take time off for medical reasons.

Although Fillip received medical clearance to return to work in May 2025, she was reportedly given only a few assignments through September. She was ultimately terminated by phone, with Grey allegedly stating he "didn't like her attitude" and ending the conversation by wishing her good luck.

The lawsuit names SpaceX and Conner Grey as defendants. Fillip is seeking economic damages, compensation for pain and suffering, and a jury trial. The New York Post has reached out to SpaceX and Grey for comment.